Holts Gems: A Journey Through Time

As Holts Gems celebrates our 75th anniversary, we reflect on the significant events that have shaped our industry over the past seven decades. Today, we delve into the exciting and transformative trends of the 1960s.

What happened in the 1960s?

The 1960s marked a monumental era in music history, with the British invasion captivating audiences worldwide. Rock and pop music from the UK, led by iconic bands such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and the Who, revolutionised the music scene and created a unique counter culture. The Beatles, in particular, achieved unprecedented success by having the top five songs on the charts simultaneously, an accomplishment that has yet to be surpassed. But it wasn't just music that had an impact; remarkable films like the first James Bond movie, "Mary Poppins," and "My Fair Lady" captivated audiences during this time. Another groundbreaking moment came in 1967 when Wimbledon became the first event to be broadcasted in colour in the UK, paving the way for a full-colour service later that year.

Jewellery trends of the 1960s:

In terms of engagement rings, the 1960s saw a surge in popularity for bright diamonds. Aretha Franklin's ring became a trendsetter, while the engagement of Mia Farrow and Frank Sinatra popularised pear-shaped diamonds.

Wedding trends of the 1960s:

When it came to wedding trends, the early 60s saw short veils and three-quarter length sleeves with structured fabrics taking centre stage. Elizabeth Taylor's iconic yellow dress set the tone for non-white wedding dresses in the mid-60s. Short wedding dresses gained popularity, and some even opted for hats instead of veils. Etta James' timeless hit, "At Last," became a beloved wedding song, along with "Moon River" from Audrey Hepburn's iconic film, "Breakfast at Tiffany's."

Famous Weddings of the 1960s:

The decade was also marked by a series of high-profile weddings. It began in 1960 with the royal union of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong. Other notable weddings included Sammy Davis Jr and May Britt, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Cher and Sonny, Jane Fonda and Roger Vadim, and Elvis Presley and Priscilla.

photos from pinterest

As we continue our anniversary celebration, we honour the 1960s as a transformative era that shaped our industry. Stay tuned for more captivating stories from our history.